Learn all about the Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge formula! Find out what it is, how to use it, and see some projects you can make.
Don’t forget to scroll down to the bottom of the page to see some ideas for this formula, including glitter glasses.

It’s always hard to pick my favorite of the Mod Podge formulas, and it definitely depends on the day. However, I will say that Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge is definitely always a front runner, and for good reason. What other decoupage formula can you WASH?!
There isn’t one.
Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge is the decoupage formula that you can apply to glass, ceramic, and metal – and then you’ll be able to wash the item. And when I say “put in the dishwasher,” I mean on the top rack after it cures.
This water based formula is indoor/outdoor durable (though I typically use Outdoor Mod Podge for outdoor projects).
Does it really work? Absolutely!
I’ve tested many projects with this formula, and if you follow the instructions EXACTLY, your item can be washed in the dishwasher.
If you are wondering about instructions, here you go. These are the steps you should follow for success:
- Clean your project surface. I wash glass, ceramic, and metal with warm soapy water – rinse thoroughly, and let dry. If your piece is too large, using rubbing alcohol and a cotton ball to clean.
- Roll your bottle on the table to mix it.
- Open and use a soft bristle brush to apply the finish to the surface and the back of the design element.
- While the Mod Podge is still wet, place the design onto the surface and smooth.
- Do not apply the design element where it can be in contact with food or your lips. For example, apply to the back of a glass plate or 1/4″ down from the edge of a cup.
- Let dry for 1- 2 hours and then apply 2 – 3 more coats. Let dry 1 – 2 hours between coats.
- Cure your project for 28 days.
- Wash by hand or in the top rack of the dishwasher.
Now that you’ve gotten the skinny on how to use it, here are some common questions I get about the formula. I’ve provided the answers to the best of my ability!
Table of Contents
Questions About Dishwasher Safe Gloss
1. Isn’t all Mod Podge dishwasher safe? Why do I need a special formula?
This is a common misconception. All Mod Podges are not dishwasher safe. For example, Outdoor formula is highly water-resistant but not waterproof. If you want to be able to wash a decoupaged item in the dishwasher, you need this formula!
2. Is Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge also microwave safe?
Negative. You shouldn’t microwave anything you make with this formula.
3. What is the finish of this formula?
It is Glossy – so shiny. You can see what a Mod Podge glossy finish looks like here.
4. What sizes does the formula come in?
It comes in 8 ounce and 16 ounce. You can find out where to buy this formula (amongst others) here.
5. What is the cure time – when can I wash my project?
You need to wait 28 days. Not 10 or 17 or 26 – 28! Please wait the full time frame for the best results.
6. Do I really have to wait 28 days for it to cure?
Yes.
7. I waited the cure time and my project messed up!
You may not have put on enough layers of Mod Podge, or they may not have been thick enough. Or if you didn’t clean your surface before beginning, regular oils from hands and other things can cause the formula not to adhere appropriately.
8. Why can’t the Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge touch my food or lips?
While it is waterbase and non-toxic (so it won’t hurt you), it’s not FDA approved food-safe. it would be very unusual for a glue to be approved for use with food! So please keep it away from anything edible.
9. How do I prepare my surface to apply this formula?
Clean with warm soapy water if the item is small – or use rubbing alcohol and cotton balls, especially if the item is larger.
10. Can I still use the formula on wood?
Yes you can. Having said that, you aren’t going to want to wash a piece of wood in the dishwasher. If this is the only formula you have, you can still use it like regular Mod Podge.
11. Can I use Dishwasher Safe with vinyl?
No, you don’t want to use any Mod Podge formula with permanent or temporary vinyl. Vinyl is a plastic and Mod Podge is an acrylic product, and those don’t seal plastic very well. Permanent vinyl doesn’t need to be sealed typically. I’m not a vinyl expert though!
12. Where can I purchase it?
This formula is available on Amazon.com, Michaels, or online at Jo-ann.com.
Are you ready for some project ideas using Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge? Check out the links below!
Ready to try Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge? Here are some awesome projects you can start with!
Washable Fabric Platter
Grab some fat quarters and go to work on some plain white dishes with Mod Podge. Perfect for housewarming or wedding gifts!
Nautical Drink Coasters
Use Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge to decoupage these unique drink coasters for summer! Get free nautical papers in a variety of patterns for your project.
Confetti Party Coasters
There are a million ways you can transform plain coasters with Mod Podge – and tissue paper confetti is one of them! These are made from hardware store tiles. Get the tutorial here.
Tissue Paper Watercolor Mugs
Using tissue paper on mugs creates a unique watercolor effect - learn how to do it with Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge here.
Make a Dishwasher Safe Glitter Mug
You can make this DIY glitter mug with Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge – then you can safely wash it without any glitter coming off!
Teacher Appreciation Apple Mug
This is such a cute idea for a teacher gift! Apply a glittery red apple to a ceramic mug with Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge.
Color Block Drinking Glasses
You can apply cardstock to glasses and make them safe for the dishwasher! Learn how to do it with your favorite designs here.
DIY Glitter Glasses
Make beautiful glitter glasses with Mod Podge to celebrate New Year's Eve – or any other celebration. The best part is you can wash these!
Striped DIY Travel Mug
This DIY travel mug was assembled with a dollar store item, paper scraps, and Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge. It's so easy and inexpensive to make!
Decorate Dollar Store Plates
Use various colors of tissue paper and Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge to decorate dollar store plates. This DIY is perfect for parties!
Easy Wooden Spoon Makeover
Use Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge for this unique wooden spoon makeover – these are so colorful and make great gifts!
Fabric Flowers and Polkadots Mug
This Fabric Flowers and Polkadots Mug is sooo cute and easy to do – you can probably finish one up in a half hour.
DIY Abstract Fruit Bowl
Enhance a white bowl with tissue paper and Mod Podge! These are fun for parties or housewarming gifts.
Let me know your favorite projects or any questions you might have in the comments! I’d also love for you to check out these other Mod Podge formulas:
- Brushstroke Mod Podge
- Extreme Glitter Mod Podge
- Fabric Mod Podge
- Furniture Mod Podge
- Gloss Mod Podge
- Glow in the Dark Mod Podge
- Hard Coat Mod Podge
- Matte Mod Podge
- Outdoor Mod Podge
- Satin Mod Podge
- Sparkle Mod Podge
- Ultra Matte Chalk Mod Podge
- Mod Podge Dimensional Magic
- Mod Podge Puzzle Saver
- Mod Podge Stiffy
- Mod Podge Ultra
Joseph
Wednesday 16th of March 2022
I make Velcro patches for teams. I print the pattern on mailing labels with an inkjet printer and stick them on the hook side of the velcro. Will the dishwasher safe also be machine washable?
Amy
Thursday 24th of March 2022
Hi Joseph! I would use something way stronger for that, given that Velcro has some plastic in it and Mod Podge doesn't work well with polymers. I think there would be a better product that I would ask about at the fabric store . . . Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge is more for decoupage on items that you would like to wash in the dishwasher, top rack. It's not meant for these type of applications! Thank you.
Mary Evans
Sunday 2nd of January 2022
Can you use a Transparent ceramic paint over the dishwasher safe medium?
Amy
Wednesday 5th of January 2022
That is a good question - I'm not sure. If you are talking about for firing it, no - you can't fire Dishwasher Safe. Which I think you need to do to that ceramic paint to make it work?
Courtney Miller
Thursday 30th of December 2021
Is there a way to remove disheasher safe modge podge from a ceramic deviled egg plate? I painted it on 12 hours ago and I sat it in our mini oven to dry (i know but its only place to keep my tiny humans from touching) and well my hubby didn't see it in the oven and turned it on to preheat.....
Long story short: I have brown discovered spots all over it and its an egg plate so its not easily "scraped off" Can the modge podge be removed? If so, what do I use?
Amy
Friday 31st of December 2021
Hi Courtney! I have a post about that: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/how-to-remove-mod-podge/ I would try soaking it. Although with the baking, I don't know if that will work. I've never experienced the brown issue. Sorry that happened to you!
Meaghan
Saturday 27th of November 2021
I was thinking about using mod podge for making tumblers, do you recommend this? if so what do you think is the best way to go about this?
Amy
Monday 6th of December 2021
Hi Meaghan! The Mod Podge works great if you want to do something like this: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/diy-travel-mug/ or something like this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCIipsGmOew
If you want to do one that is more durable, you can use the resin: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKztsNsOITA
It's really up to personal preference! The resin is longer lasting.
Lynne A.
Monday 8th of November 2021
Nice information.Quick question, what Mod Podge do I use to glue fabric to flip flops? Thank you in advance for your answer.
Amy
Tuesday 9th of November 2021
We have a tutorial here! https://modpodgerocksblog.com/scrap-fabric-wrapped-summer-diy-sandals/ Having said that, you don't have to use the fabric formula. You can use Gloss or Matte.